East Dunbartonshire’s independent shops lead the way – Jo

Jo has shown her support for East Dunbartonshire’s independent retailers with visits to two of the area’s valued local shops.

Jo with Paul Conway and Patrick Paton from Paul’s Quality Butchers

Jo called in at both Milngavie Bookshop and Kirkintilloch’s award-winning Paul’s Quality Butchers to back today’s “Independents’ Day”, a campaign organised by Skillsmart Retail and the National Skills Academy for Retail, which aims to boost local businesses and support independent traders.

Jo spoke to Milngavie Bookshop owner Susan Frize about her popular business, established over 30 years ago. As well as having an extensive selection of titles and a busy cafe, the shop has become a cultural hub for events and talks with acclaimed authors. Paul’s Quality Butchers in Kirkintilloch, meanwhile, boasts wide recognition, including an appearance on Gordon Ramsay’s ‘F-Word’ programme.

Jo with Milngavie Bookshop Owner Susan Frize

Commenting, Jo said:

“I was delighted to visit both Milngavie Bookshop and Paul’s Quality Butchers as part of Independents’ Day 2011. With its warm and welcoming atmosphere, it is no surprise that many customers see Milngavie Bookshop as the perfect place to find a good book and relax with a cup of tea, whilst Paul’s Quality Butchers has deservedly earned its reputation for friendly service and quality products, as well as a host of awards!

“Independents’ day celebrates the importance of diversity on our high streets, something which many local residents have spoken out toprotect, in the case of the Tesco Milngavie expansion and the Morrisons redevelopment in Bishopbriggs.

“Particularly in these difficult economic times, independent traders deserve our support, and I hope local residents will continue to shop at the many fantastic independent retailers East Dunbartonshire has to offer.”

Commenting further, Milngavie Bookshop owner Susan Frize said:

“Aside from its catchy title, Independents’ Day is a great opportunity to raise awareness of how important independent shops are to the local community. Independents are more than just a shop – they have a real role to play in local society.”

“Supporting local traders is the most important thing we can do to keep our high streets unique. Independents’ Day 2011 is a great way to celebrate our local retailers and remind people the big names shouldn’t dominate in our towns.“

Find out more about our work - sign up for emails today:

Optional email code

First Name

Last Name

Email

Postcode

Can we keep you updated?

Yes, I'd like to get emails from the local Liberal Democrats.

If you submit this form, the Liberal Democrats, locally and nationally, may use information in it, including your political views, to further our objectives, share it with our elected representatives and contact you in future using any of the means provided. Some contacts may be automated. You may opt out of some or all contacts or exercise your other legal rights by contacting us. Further details are in our Privacy Policy at www.libdems.org.uk/privacy

Share this post on social media:

Optional email code

Can we keep you updated?

Yes, I'd like to get emails from the local Liberal Democrats.

If you submit this form, the Liberal Democrats, locally and nationally, may use information in it, including your political views, to further our objectives, share it with our elected representatives and contact you in future using any of the means provided. Some contacts may be automated. You may opt out of some or all contacts or exercise your other legal rights by contacting us. Further details are in our Privacy Policy at www.libdems.org.uk/privacy

If you enter your details on this website, the Liberal Democrats, locally and nationally, may use information in it, including your political views, to further our objectives, share it with our elected representatives and/or contact you in future using any of the means provided. Some contacts may be automated. You may opt out of some or all contacts or exercise your other legal rights by contacting us. Further details are in our Privacy Policy at www.libdems.org.uk/privacy.